Citizens Advice, in its role as the official consumer champion for energy, has welcomed Ofgem’s decision issue Avro Energy with a final order for breaching the requirement to become a Data Communications Company (DCC) user.

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said:

“Engaging with the DCC is essential for the roll out of second generation smart meters (SMETS2). Avro’s failure to join the DCC means it’s unprepared for that rollout, leaving its customers with first generation meters (SMETS1) that lose smart functionality if they switch suppliers. Suppliers shouldn’t risk consumer confidence in the programme by giving their customers a sub-par experience.

“Smart meters are critical for the long term development of our energy infrastructure and it is vital that we get it right. There have been substantial delays to the rollout and costs are escalating. The government needs to publish a new cost-benefit analysis at the earliest opportunity.”